The Okayama Destination Campaign - one of Japan's most extensive tourism campaigns, ran in Okayama Prefecture from July to September 2022. During the campaign, there were many interactive events, but the highlight was the revival and operation of diesel trains owned by the Okayama Branch of JR West that originally ran on Japanese National Railways back in the day. In addition, a new tourist train created especially for the campaign made its debut. With the demand for travel on the rise, the local governments and tourism industry had high expectations for JR's Okayama Branch. See how the company used its old trains to attract visitors and the efforts of the mechanics who supported the campaign.

One of the biggest news in the railway industry this year is the opening of JR Kyushu's Nishi Kyushu Shinkansen. Making its debut on September 23, the 66km line runs between Takeo-onsen Station in Saga Prefecture and Nagasaki Station in Nagasaki Prefecture. A major redeveloping project around Nagasaki Station is underway, creating excitement in the prefecture. Also, a new tourist train started service along with the shinkansen, and many tourists are expected to visit the area. On the other hand, the national government and Saga Prefecture are still discussing the development of a section east of Takeo-onsen Station that will connect to Fukuoka Prefecture, but no agreement has been made. See the new Nishi Kyushu Shinkansen and the regional revitalization of the line's opening.